Hoverspeed leads the way across the English Channel in 2005 – Hoverspeed customers unaffected by Calais berthing chaos

Hoverspeed has boosted its capacity for 2005 by adding a second luxurious jumbo Seacat, the 81-metre long Rapide, which joins its sister Seacat, the Diamant. The larger vessels can each carry 150 vehicles and 650 passengers, enabling Hoverspeed to offer valuable extra capacity during peak periods like Easter, half terms and public holidays.

The two high-speed Seacats, strikingly distinctive in their matching Union flag liveries, have undergone a complete refit over the winter. With plush leather seating, every passenger can feel like a VIP. Travelling at 38 knots, the Seacats leave the slower, traditional ferries in their wake, making the crossing to Dover in just under one hour berth to berth – and with unbeatable fares from just £49 return when booked online, Hoverspeed is simply the best.

Managing director Geoffrey Ede said: ‘Hoverspeed is the best-kept secret on the English Channel. We give our customers excellent value for money without compromising on quality. Hoverspeed has dedicated terminals in Dover and Calais Hoverports so customers can avoid the frustrating, lengthy queues associated with travelling on traditional ferries, with the extra benefit of being able to check in just half an hour before sailing.

‘Add to this our pre-order shopping service – something no other cross-Channel ferry operator offers – and fantastic prices on a range of top-quality wines, beers and fragrances, it’s not surprising that advance bookings are up on this time last year.’

Following record-breaking retail sales in 2004, Hoverspeed is anticipating another bumper year for 2005. As well as continuing to offer its most popular top-sellers, Hoverspeed has negotiated great deals for its customers on a number of brand new retail lines.

Beers, wines and fragrances aren’t the only things on which travellers can make great savings in 2005. Hoverspeed Holidays is gearing up for spring breaks and summer holidays with some great-value family breaks, from cities to theme parks in top Continental destinations including Bruges, Brussels, Antwerp, Lille, Reims, Paris and Rouen.

Hoverspeed Holidays include return Channel crossing for a car and occupants. For further information or to book, visit www.hoverspeedholidays.com or call 0870 460 7272.

Passengers who want to stock up on bargains without taking the car can take advantage of Hoverspeed’s £1 flyer fare (based on stand-by travel). Foot passengers don’t have to carry any purchases. Simply pre-order on-line or in Dover, sign for the goods in Calais and collect back in Dover – what could be easier!

For more details about Hoverspeed’s unbeatable range of low-cost fares, go to hoverspeed.com or call 0870 240 8070.